2006 NFL Hall of Fame

The 2006 NFL Hall of Fame induction ceremony takes place today. This year's group of inductees is special, even when compared to all the great names who have recieved the honor in the past.
You know its a big event when a pair of Cowboys legends, Rayfield Wright and Troy Aikman, are the small stories of the event. This does nothing to diminish thier greatness or their accomplishments. It just means that the other stories are truely spectacular.
John Madden is a household name. As coach of the Raiders, he helped create one of the most feared teams in the history of sports. His sideline antics were as outragous as they come. In the broadcast booth he brought his endless wealth of experience and information, and he translated that into terms that the average viewer could understand. He spoke like a fan during broadcasts, and the viewers could relate to that. As a spokesman, he became a household name. His Madden video games have revolutionized sports video games and have helped teach the game of football to millions of kids. John Madden has already left a huge footprint in the history of the NFL, and he is far from finished.
Harry Carson had to wait far too long to recieve his honor. As a linebacker for the Giants, he was one of the most dominant players of his generation. He kept his name out of the headlines, preferring to be the perfect 'team player.' His smart, aggressive style of play set the standard for many of today's linebackers. Off the field, he was even more amazing. Whenever a friend or teammate was in need, injured, or just fallen on hard times, Harry Carson was always the first to respond. His dedication to community projects is unparralled. He has always been a class act. The NFL made a mistake by not including him in the Hall of Fame until now. Finally a new generation of fans can be introduced to someone who truley deserves it.
Warren Moon was one of my favorite players ever. In his prime, he was magic on the field. He brought a whole new level of mobility to position of Quarterback. And as a pocket passer, he was one of the best. Even before coming to the NFL, his stats in the CFL are still held in awe. In his 6 seasons in the CFL, he led his team to 5 champioships. He made his NFL mark with the Houston Oilers. He came into the the league at a time when black quarterbacks were rare. He helped break down a few of the racial barriers that still existed at the time. He never got them to the top, but they were always a contender with him. Injuries finally ended a carreer that age could not. Warren Moon is still considered a prototype for guys like Steve McNair, Michael Vick, and Aaron Brooks.
We all know the Reggie White story. He was one the true good guys. Thats all that needs to be said. His death was painfull for everyone who ever knew him and everyone who ever watched him play. There will not be a dry eye remaining when his name is spoken at today's ceremony. The Hall of Fame will be in good hands with the 'Minister of Defense' there to protect it.